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Description
CLARKSON (Thomas).
An Essay on the Political Disadvantages of the Slave Trade.
Neufchâtel, 1789. — 8vo, 195 x 120: xxviij, 320 pp. Marbled calfskin, plain spine with decoration, marbled edges (contemporary binding).
First edition of the French translation of what is regarded as one of the abolitionist ‘Bibles’, written by the Reverend Thomas Clarkson, who sought to demonstrate, with supporting evidence, all the evils of the slave trade.
The text is preceded by an extract from Clarkson’s work entitled: An Essay on Slavery & the Trade in Human Beings, & particularly Africans.
The translation of the first essay is attributed to Gramagnac, a doctor and secretary of the Society of Friends of the Blacks, founded in 1788. The translation of the second is also attributed to Gramagnac, though some believe it to be by Jean-Louis Carra.
The top edge is missing, and the corners are slightly worn. Slight water-stain on the top of the pages of the final folios from page 241 onwards.
Provenance:
Contemporary armorial bookplate. – Philippe Zoummeroff (auction 9 December 2016, lot 143).
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
About the sale
Claude Mozis Library – Black Africa and the African diaspora
Auction location
Auction time
10/21/2026 at 2:00 PM
Lot description modified on 10/02/2026 at 9:38 AM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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